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“Mafi’s interpretation of African tradition and colors is transformed in a modern vision that can be worn daily,” Sara Maino, Senior Editor Vogue Italia and Head of Vogue Talents. Director of the Goethe-Institut Addis Ababa also stated that “Our aim is to connect people. Mafi and an international buyer – we are excited to see where this combination will lead us to.”

Mafi creates clothing and accessories which are fresh and cutting-edge and at the same time very wearable. Working with hand-woven fabrics is a way for Mafi to give back and to support women weavers who are often marginalized within the male-dominated weaving community.

The connection between hand-woven fabrics and Ethiopian culture and history is something Mafi explores in her work. Culture and tradition can sometimes become as essential and as invisible as air. Pushing herself creatively Mafi produces contemporary pieces with ancient fabrics, giving visibility to the diversity and depth of Ethiopian culture and tradition.

After careers in modeling and rapping, Afework turned to fashion after learning about her craft via Google and YouTube videos.